Cocktail of the Week: the Belmont Jewel

 

The Captivating Cocktails of the Belmont Stakes.

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While the Kentucky Derby has steadfastly stuck to its beloved mint julep, the other two Triple Crown races embrace a spirit of change when it comes to their official libations. It's a curious tradition where the cocktails retain their names while their recipes evolve, and the Belmont Stakes is no exception.

For many years, the White Carnation reigned as the favored drink at Belmont. However, in 1998, a master mixologist named Dale DeGroff introduced the Belmont breeze, a marvelously intricate concoction that captivated the taste buds. Over time, the race introduced the Belmont Jewel in 2011, offering a recipe that evolves with different premium bourbons, reflecting the shifting landscape of marketing and sponsorship. Nonetheless, feel free to experiment and choose your preferred bourbon, as this delightful drink never fails to impress.

Here are the ingredients and how to make it:

  • 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey

  • 2 ounces lemonade

  • 1 ounce pomegranate juice

  • Lemon wedge, orange zest, or ​cherry, for garnish

Steps to Make It

  1. Gather the ingredients.

  2. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the ingredients.

  3. Shake vigorously.

  4. Strain over fresh ice into a double old-fashioned glass.

  5. Garnish with a lemon wedge, orange zest, or cherry. Serve and enjoy.